Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), in collaboration with Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD), the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), brought together government representatives, researchers, academics, and development partners in Nairobi on October 12, 2026, to advance the design of the Agriculture and Climate Evidence (ACE) Lab.

The proposed lab aims to strengthen the use of data and research evidence in agricultural policy and decision-making in Kenya, with KALRO as its proposed host institution. During the consultation, participants reviewed the Lab’s proposed design and draft Terms of Reference, discussing its mandate, governance, and pathways for institutionalization within government. They also identified priority agricultural policy questions and evidence needs to inform the Lab’s future work.

IFPRI also presented a framework to connect agricultural research for development with Kenya’s national policy priorities and track its contributions through relevant indicators. Feedback from stakeholders will inform the refinement of the Lab’s draft Terms of Reference and institutionalization plans, supporting its development as a government-led initiative.

Going forward, IPA will continue working with MoALD, KALRO and IFPRI to support the ACE Lab’s institutionalization within government structures. This will include adapting the Lab’s Learning agenda to government priorities, tempering the lab governance within the existing government structures, establishing a lab team that coordinates the learning cycle, strengthening technical and organizational capacities, and supporting the allocation of financial and human resources to sustain the Lab over time.

Participants at the event. © 2026 IPA Kenya